BUFFALO, N.Y., Aug. 9 (UPI) -- A refusal by the owners of the Empire State Building to allow a lighted tribute to Mother Teresa has generated anger and criticism, observers say.
Religious groups had requested the tribute for the 100th anniversary later this month of the birthday of the renowned Catholic nun, who died in 1997 and is now under consideration for sainthood, The Buffalo (N.Y.) news reported Monday.
On its Web site, the Empire State Building states it does not light the building for religious figures and organizations, the newspaper said.
The Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights has protested the denial and plans a demonstration outside the building on Aug. 26, the anniversary date.
Meanwhile, operators of another iconic New York structure have stepped in and say they will honor the request.
The international Peace Bridge between Canada and the United States at the east end of Lake Erie will be adorned with blue and white lights Aug. 26, they say. UPI
